"Sometimes, taking that first step into the unknown is the scariest part, but it’s also the most powerful."
When I joined LA Forward’s Community Leadership for Affordable Housing Academy, I had no idea what to expect. I knew that housing justice was important, but I wasn’t sure how someone like me could make a difference. Encouraged by the Healing and Justice Center, I stepped into this program with both excitement and nerves, ready to learn how to advocate for affordable housing in my community.
As the program unfolded, I realized that housing policy isn’t just about numbers or regulations—it’s about people. One of the most eye-opening moments was learning about each city's Housing Element, a 10-year plan outlining how they’ll address housing. I dug into one city’s plan and found myself surprised by its focus on creating more tenants than homeowners. This discovery made me question the systems at play and fueled my desire to dig deeper.
But beyond the policies, what truly transformed me were the people in the program. Alison and Godfrey, our facilitators, created a space where we could make mistakes, ask tough questions, and really think about how we, as individuals, could contribute to something much larger. With every session, my confidence grew. I went from being a quiet observer to actively participating, feeling empowered to ask the hard questions.
One of the most memorable experiences was working on a project with my partner about Production and how churches can use SB4 to build affordable housing on their land. This project wasn’t just an assignment—it was a chance to think about real solutions for our community, and it sparked conversations that will stay with me long after the program.
I no longer feel like I’m watching from the sidelines. After this 6 month program, I’m ready to attend city council meetings, speak up, and be part of the movement for housing justice. If I’ve learned anything from this journey, it’s that change is possible when we come together and take action.
My biggest takeaway from this experience — anyone can lean into this work. You do not have to be an expert to take up space! I encourage anyone passionate about making a difference to find opportunities like this. Together, we can build a community that works for all of us.